Is there a difference between an Associate of Arts Degree and an Associate of Science Degree?

Answer 1

Whether a two year degree is classified as an Associate of Arts (AA), an Associates of Science (AS), or Associates of Applied Science (AAS), is dependent on how many general education courses are required to complete the degree. If you look at the AA, you will find that the programs specific to many areas have a well rounded general education mix. This is to ensure – for transfer purposes to a four year college or university – that they satisfy the four years institutions first two year general cluster area. Now looking at the AS degree, you will find that there are less general education requirements and morecareer oriented courses required to complete the degree. I guess one example would be an AS in Nursing (RN). Here, the general education course requirements are less because of the professional phase courses that are needed to complete the degree. Thus, you can see that the AS degree is more specific to the career. Now let’s look at the AAS degree. Here the program of study is very particular to the career, with even less general education requirements needed to complete the degree. In other words, the AAS is designed to give an individual all the expertise necessary to enter their chosen career – at least at an entry level position. That being said; please note the following.

In regards to the above, please check with the Transfer Counselor at the two year college as to the transferability of the AS, and AAS degrees to four year colleges and university should you want to pursue a higher degree at a later date. Many of the two year colleges have special articulations with the four year schools for many programs, to include those which fall into the AS and AAS categories.